By alley - Jan 16, 2017, 12:05 PM ET

F1: Massa deal only for 2017

Felipe Massa's return to Williams sees the Brazilian signing a one-year deal for the 2017 Formula 1 season.

Williams needed to secure an experienced replacement for Valtteri Bottas having provisionally allowed the Finn to join Mercedes, and managed to convince Massa to reverse his decision to retire in order to return to the team. The two moves were confirmed on Monday with

Massa saying Williams was the only team he would have continued racing in F1 for

, and the 35-year-old has confirmed his deal is for one year.

"At present this is a deal for 2017 only and I have not thought beyond," said Massa, who will partner Canadian rookie Lance Stroll in the coming season.

Reflecting on the past six weeks that have resulted in his return to Williams, Massa admits he was influenced in part by a positive reaction to rumors he could race again in 2017, with his plans almost an open secret since late December.

"I think what happened at the end of last season with Nico [Rosberg]'s unexpected retirement sparked a unique turn of events. Valtteri has been offered a fantastic opportunity and, as a result, an opportunity arose for me.

"When the media began reporting that I might return, I was touched by the response from so many fans who wanted to see me back in the sport. That was certainly a factor in the decision, so I'd like to thank the fans for their support. But, at the end of the day, when I received the call it was an offer I couldn't refuse. It was Williams!"

Massa's original retirement resulted in emotional scenes during his home race at Interlagos (pictured below), with the Brazilian walking down the pit lane to a guard of honor from Mercedes and Ferrari. Massa admits he may not get the same reception when he finally stops racing in F1 for good but is happy with his decision to return.

"The scenes I saw in Brazil and Abu Dhabi last year are ones that I will never forget. I am so grateful for everything that happened last year and all the kind messages. Whatever happens this season, I will always leave the sport with my head held high."